OK, so I need some help guys, I have an engineering project that was recently assigned to me and basically the main goal is to construct a model transportation device (2’x2’x4’ maximum) that can go the farthest and hold the most water weight (a formula was made by the judges to balance out both of these to make it even). However the rules are that you may not use any form of electrical devices whatsoever, nor can you use any liquid flammable objects such as gasoline or any rocket fuels. Another rule that was actually placed in recently was that no animals are allowed to be involved (which I found quite funny).

So basically of course I’ve thought of the old wind up and go technique, or even a way of propulsion through CO2 canisters, but can anybody please help with any creative ideas that I’ve simply passed by please??

I know this is pretty late, but I'd favour the wind-up idea - a huge amount of energy can be stored and released in a controlled, efficient manner, all for very little space used. CO2 cannisters will get the contraption moving, but only for a short distance - the water weight will limit the propulsive effect.

If your work's already done, I hope it went well! I've heard stories (from old engineers) of prototype wind-up trams, that were never put in service for safety reasons - they were too efficient! From incorrect operation, the testers managed to de-rail the tram, which was powered by a tensioned steel coil driving through a gearbox.

know this is pretty late, but I'd favour the wind-up idea - a huge amount of energy can be stored and released in a controlled, efficient manner, all for very little space used. CO2 cannisters will get the contraption moving, but only for a short distance - the water weight will limit the propulsive effect.

If your work's already done, I hope it went well! I've heard stories (from old engineers) of prototype wind-up trams, that were never put in service for safety reasons - they were too efficient! From incorrect operation, the testers managed to de-rail the tram, which was powered by a tensioned steel coil driving through a gearbox.
10-23-2008 02:57 AM
yb1013 OK, so I need some help guys, I have an engineering project that was recently assigned to me and basically the main goal is to construct a model transportation device (2’x2’x4’ maximum) that can go the farthest and hold the most water weight (a formula was made by the judges to balance out both of these to make it even). However the rules are that you may not use any form of electrical devices whatsoever, nor can you use any liquid flammable objects such as gasoline or any rocket fuels. Another rule that was actually placed in recently was that no animals are allowed to be involved (which I found quite funny).

So basically of course I’ve thought of the old wind up and go technique, or even a way of propulsion through CO2 canisters, but can anybody please help with any creative ideas that I’ve simply passed